Iceland review - 2015, Page 105

ICELAND REVIEW 103
WONDROUS VESTMANNAEYJAR
buried by ash during the eruption. There are audio guides that
take visitors through the history and events; before, during and
after the eruption.
To get a better understanding of Heimaey and its population,
check out the Sagnheimar Folk Museum. The museum, which was
renovated in 2011, includes displays on everything from the annu-
al festival Þjóðhátíð to the local fishing industry that has sustained
locals for centuries. Sæheimar, the local natural museum, features
fish tanks with live fish which can be found around the islands, a
bird exhibit and an impressive mineral collection. The main attrac-
tion, however, is a live puffin that visitors can see and pet. The
puffin is a family favorite!
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
If you are up for outdoor activities, you’re in luck. Vestmannaeyjar
have a bit of everything. There are bike tours, a spectacular golf
course, open year-round, with rocky cliffs and the looming Eldfell
in the background, as well as a number of hiking trails. Many visi-
tors choose to roam the base of Eldfell or go to the top, and stroll
downtown. You won’t find a plethora of arduous hikes, but the
island is an opportunity for casual walks and prime picture-taking.
Bus tours are also available, where guests will see the recon-
structed farmhouse of the first settler of Vestmannaeyjar, stand
at the windiest place in Europe, drive by Eldfell, and join a small
sightseeing tour of the town. A Segway rental company also oper-
ates on the island and it’s a great way to explore the sights.
A perfect way to spend a couple of hours before or after a day
of exploring the island is to visit the swimming pool, which has a
large heated indoor pool, hot tubs, a sauna and a gym. The pool
facilities are popular among locals and tourists alike. There’s also
a waterslide for children, which makes it very family-friendly.

STAY OVERNIGHT
Many visitors who plan on staying for the day regret not booking
accommodation for a longer stay. Hótel Vestmannaeyjar is a mod-
ern hotel in the center of town that offers comfortable rooms with
private bathrooms and a restaurant that serves dinner daily in the
winter. A new wing was opened in 2014 and features spacious, chic
rooms. Guesthouse Hamar is another great option on the island,
offering 14 cozy rooms, a daily breakfast buffet and friendly staff
members waiting to welcome you.
Tours, accommodation and ferry tickets can be purchased through visitwestmanislands.com; also check out visitvestmannaeyjar.is
SPECIAL PROMOTION SOUTH ICELAND